This is one of the featured posts I’ll be doing on my blog. You ask a question via email or my “Ask Kim” page, and I’ll answer it here. I’ll pick something from the questions that I get, and use it as a post that I feel will definitely help other naturals.
Cheryl T Asks:
” I have a lot of hair. Going for all natural from a perm about 9 months ago. I have 3 inches new growth and the rest old relaxer. Is there any other way to get this perm out without cutting it back to 3 inches?”
First, congrats on your journey Ms. Cheryl!
This is a common question among those that are transitioning from relaxed or heat damaged hair, to natural hair. Unfortunately in order to get rid of those pesky straight ends you only have two options: Cut those strands, or transition slowly.
Big Chop. (Cut yo hair ALOT!)
This is scary because if you have only a few inches of new growth, this can leave you with a TWA also known as a Teenie Weenie Afro. You can do a big chop, and do a protective style, until your hair reaches an acceptable length. You can rock some individuals (aka box braids), corn rows, a wig, or a weave.
Transitioning: (Leave the new growth AND the relaxed/heat damaged ends)
I opted to transition slowly from my heat damaged hair to more healthy defined curls. Transitioning is difficult because you’re dealing with two completely different textures of hair. You have that curly new growth, then the relaxed ends. But, don’t fear. There are different styles you can do while transitioning. As you’re slowly cutting those ends away to reveal more of your natural curls, here are a few styles you can do, until your hair has grown an acceptable length for cutting:
- • Twist Outs
- • Braid Outs
- • Bantu-Knot Outs
- • Buns
- • Box Braids
- • Cornrows
The choice is yours! Do what’s best for you and your lifestyle!
Did you do a big chop or did you transition slowly? How was the experience for you? Do you regret your decision? What would you have done differently? Let us know, so other naturals know the pros and cons with transitioning.
i see you mentioned you do baggy few times a week. Can you explain how you bash. Wet/Dry hair products full head or pony? How do you style the next mooring? Do you bag in twist, plats, or cornrows.
Thanks in advance.
Hi AJ,
The baggy method is take your hair, dampen it (not your scalp), moisturize, and seal with your favorite sealant, and then place a plastic bag (grocery bag, clear plastic shower cap) over the hair. I baggy with my hair in loose ponytail, moisturize, seal, twist or braid and place a clear plastic shower cap over it. I secure the bag with a ponytail holder and place a satin scarf or bonnet over. I wake up and style as usual. The baggy method really helps moisturize and strengthen those ends. I will do a tutorial soon! I hope this helps!